Concrete Driveways in Coral Gables
Installation & Replacement
A great driveway does two things: it looks sharp from the street and it takes daily use without cracking or settling. We design and build concrete driveways in Coral Gables that do both. From precise base prep to clean finishing, our process is built for South Florida heat, rain, and tree roots. Whether you’re replacing a worn driveway or pouring a brand-new layout, you’ll get a clear plan, straightforward pricing, and a crew that keeps the jobsite tidy.
What You Get With Our Driveways
- Proper base preparation — old material removed (if replacing), subgrade leveled, and compacted aggregate base for support.
- Right thickness for the load — typically 4–6 inches depending on vehicles, soils, and site conditions.
- Reinforcement — #3 rebar grid or fiber mesh to help control cracking and improve performance.
- Drainage and slope — we pitch the slab away from the garage/house and manage transitions to sidewalks and the street.
- Clean finishes — standard broom finish for traction, with neat edges, tooled joints, and tidy apron work.
- Options — exposed aggregate, integral color, or a stamped border for custom curb appeal.
Our Step-By-Step Process
- On-site measure & plan
We evaluate access, setbacks, utilities, tree roots, and runoff. You’ll see the layout options (single, double, circular, added parking pad) and finish choices. - Demo & haul-away (for replacements)
We remove the existing surface, dispose of debris, and protect nearby landscaping. - Base prep & forms
Subgrade is re-shaped and compacted; forms are set to grade for accurate elevation and slope. We add dowels at the garage slab if needed. - Reinforcement
Rebar installed on chairs/ties or fiber added to the mix per your spec. - Pour & finish
Mix is placed with controlled slump, then screeded, bull-floated, edged, and broom finished. We cut control joints at proper spacing (typically 8–10 feet). - Cure & clean up
We post-pour care instructions and, if part of your scope, return for saw cuts, washing, and sealing.
Layouts & Design Ideas
- Classic straight drive with apron and sidewalk transition
- Widened entry flare for easier turns off the street
- Side parking pad/RV pad with thicker sections at load points
- Border accents (integral color or stamped band) to frame the driveway
- Ribbon driveway (two parallel strips) for historic or landscape-forward properties
Specs That Matter
(and Why)
- Thickness: 4" is common for passenger cars; 5–6" is recommended for heavier vehicles or soft subgrade.
- Reinforcement: #3 rebar on an 18"–24" grid is typical; fiber mesh is an alternative or add-on.
- Joints: Tooled/saw-cut joints control where shrinkage cracks occur and keep lines crisp.
- Edges: Beveled edges reduce chipping and improve appearance.
- Drainage: We build positive slope away from structures and handle transitions to the apron and curb so water doesn’t pond.
Curing, Sealing & Use Timeline
- Foot traffic: 24–48 hours
- Passenger vehicles: typically 5–7 days
- Heavy vehicles/trailers: 10–14 days (site-specific)
- Sealing (optional/if colored or stamped): usually after 28 days; re-seal every 2–3 years for color depth and protection.
When Is Replacement
Smarter Than Repair?
We’ll always look for the most cost-effective solution. If you have widespread heaving, deep cracks tied to base failure, or major settlement, a full tear-out and replacement often costs less (and looks better) than patching. We’ll explain the “why” on site so you can decide with confidence.
Permits, HOA & Clean Sites
If a permit or HOA approval is needed, we’ll help you navigate it. During work we keep sidewalks passable, protect plantings, and haul debris daily. Final cleanup leaves the street and your yard looking neat.
Ready to replace or design your driveway? Contact us today or request your free on-site estimate!
FAQs
How long does a driveway project take?
- Most residential driveways are completed in
1–2 days on site, plus curing time before driving.
Can you match my existing sidewalk or porch color?
- Yes. We can add integral color, use antique releases for stamped borders, or choose a compatible sealer sheen to blend new with old.
Do you install paver borders?
- We can pour a concrete driveway and add a
stamped or colored concrete border; paver borders are also possible on request.
Will tree roots crack my new driveway?
- We evaluate nearby roots, adjust layout or thickness, and may recommend root pruning or a thicker section in those areas to help manage movement.